SOMNIATE – We Have Proved Death
Release Date: 14th July 2023
Label: Lavadome Productions
Bandcamp
Genre: Blackened Death Metal, Black Metal, Avant-Garde, Post-Metal.
FFO: Départe, The Order of Apollo, Voices, Diskord.
Review By: Carlos Tirado
Somniate can be classified as one of those Black/Death metal bands that don’t easily fit into any specific genre. Their sound can be described as disharmonic and chaotic, yet still distinctly within the realm of metal. There are no obvious crossovers with jazz or industrial music in their sound; any influences in that direction are more subtle. However, what is not subtle is the heavy and uncanny atmosphere that We Have Proved Death conveys. This album represents many things, but to me, it embodies a profound sense of existential despair. I’m Here and You’re Distant is enigmatic, to say the least. It immediately captured my attention and left me with many questions, prompting me to listen to the next song right away. A Lamb At False Dawn effectively evokes raw agony with its harsh changes and strong melodic sensitivity.
The Statue Of Mirrors carries a strong blackened vibe, and its riffs remind me of The Order of Apollo (another great band!). Black Soundless Sugar changes the mood for a few minutes before returning to the evil riffs. It’s always refreshing to have a track that alters the pace, and this is executed skillfully, avoiding the pitfall of becoming a mere half-minute interlude that wastes time.
The album itself feels like an abyss of despair, and its abrupt ending is sure to divide fans. It’s strange because, while I appreciate the brevity of the album, the ending leaves me feeling like more could have been said. Perhaps that is exactly the intention behind such anxiety-inducing material—to leave us with unresolved issues. I would like to highlight the vocals, as they truly convey a sense of real agony and claustrophobia, alternating between heart-breaking shrieks and angry growls. As the album progresses, it becomes increasingly more blackened in its sound. While this is still enjoyable, I found that the more experimental parts were the ones I enjoyed the most. Therefore, your personal preference will determine how much you enjoy this aspect. In a way, I have the feeling that the album plays it safer once it reaches the last two tracks. Perhaps Non-You is one or two minutes too long for my taste.
The drum work throughout the album is great, not because it’s ultra-technical, but because it always complements the mood perfectly. I also appreciate the organic production, which allows room to breathe and listen to the small details scattered throughout the chaos.
In conclusion, I was pleasantly surprised by this release from Somniate. On the first listen, they didn’t entirely convince me, but now I’m eagerly anticipating their next step, even if it means a 15-minute longer album!
(3.5 / 5)
